While traveling, food is central to know more about the culture, so during my trip to Jamaica I told myself I wanted to eat Jamaican while my experience on the island…

Ital food is derived from the word “vital food”. Ital food means it is natural, pure and clean food. For a Rastafarian it means no salt, no chemicals, no flesh, no blood, no alcohol.

The philosophy behind this culinary culture is to increase Livity, or the life energy that Rastafari generally believe lives within all human beings. As such, one must eat pure, natural and from the earth.

Coconut is a basic ingredient in ital cooking. Coconut milk extracted from grated coconuts serves as the base for most successful ital dishes. The coconut milk is often cooked as a rundown and the other ingredients added. Scotch bonnet pepper is another key ingredient. Pimento (allspice) is also a key ingredient. Thyme is another essential ingredient. Thyme not only provides a good flavor, it is a good substitute for salt. To this we can add other ingredients such as garlic, onions, scallions, green peppers, tomatoes, etc.

Scotch Bonnet Pepper

So no matter what your usual food habits may be, eating Ital is a must-do when visiting Jamaica! A true local experience and here’s why! Enjoy new flavors’ and tastes while sipping on some fresh fruit juices.